More than 50 million vehicles in the United States have unrepaired safety recalls, according to the National Safety Council. While some do not affect fleet vehicles, many safety recalls do impact fleets. Fleet operators need to be vigilant about addressing recalls in order to have the greatest confidence about safety when their drivers get behind the wheel.

Recently, Hyundai Motor America issued a significant recall that spans several models. Specifically, Hyundai is recalling an estimated 281,000 2019-2022 Accent, 2021-2023 Elantra, and 2021-2022 Elantra HEV vehicles for a seat belt issue. The recall includes 239,000 vehicles in the United States and about 42,000 in Canada.

The problem is that the front driver-side and/or passenger-side seat belt pretensioners may explode upon deployment in the event of a crash. This poses danger as an exploding seat belt pretensioner can project metal fragments into the vehicle. These, in turn, may strike the driver or occupants, increasing the likelihood of injuries.

To fix the problem, dealers will secure the seat belt pretensioner(s) with a cap, at no cost to owners. Owner notification letters will be mailed July 15. Hyundai's number for this recall is 229.

This recall expands and replaces NHTSA recall numbers 21V-796, 22V-069, 22V-218, and 22V-123 for Accent, Elantra, and Elantra HEV vehicles. All Accent, Elantra, and Elantra HEV vehicles already repaired under the previous recalls will need to have the new remedy completed.

Owners can reach Hyundai customer service at (855) 371-9460.